Why did the Taskmaster contestant cross the road? To get to Leeds, apparently - we’ll leave the jokes on this occasion to the professionals...
But the city has become a major comedy destination, boasting a stunning volume of talent across its biggest stages, with a staggering total of comedy performances booked across the year, making the city a non-stop destination for laughter, spanning every style imaginable.
So many in fact that, for the sake of time, we’ve highlighted over 40 of those coming the city in 2026.
We've highlighted household names, either from their huge body of work over the years or having been spotted on shows like Taskmaster, Have I Got News For You and the wealth of other televised or streaming opportunities for those comedians.
The incredible schedule is split between the city’s major powerhouses: the First Direct Arena hosts the biggest headliners, while the historic stages of the Leeds Grand Theatre and City Varieties Music Hall attract the most critically acclaimed and experimental touring shows.
We must also give a special shout-out to The Glee Club in Leeds, who ensure the city has regular, high-quality comedy throughout the year, nurturing both new and established talent - and for those in need of a laughter can head to the club, which offers comedy almost every night.
Whether you’re looking for the stadium-sized relatability of arena stars, the meta-theatrical genius of alt-comedy heroes, or the sharp political satire dominating the airwaves, Leeds is ready to deliver.
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37. Joe Tracini: 10 Things I Hate About Me (June 28)
Actor (best known for Hollyoaks) and writer whose work candidly discusses mental health and living with Borderline Personality Disorder. A powerful, hilarious, and ultimately hopeful theatre show. 😂 City Varieties Music Hall, Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW | Contributed
38. Phil Wang: UH OH (September 13)
Major TV and touring star, known for his appearances on Have I Got News For You and his brilliantly clever, laid-back observational style. 😂 Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Submitted
39. Jonathan Pie: Work in Progress (September 18)
The viral political comedian (Tom Walker) brings his latest 'work in progress' show—a brilliant, furious, and hilarious rant against the state of the world. 😂 City Varieties Music Hall, Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW | ATG Tickets
40. Maisie Adam: Whatsherface (September 24)
Yorkshire comedian and star of the most recent series of Taskmasker leaves 'the dip' and returns with a confident new hour of high-energy, infectious stand-up. 😂 Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Contributed Photo: Contributed
41. Laura Smyth: Born Aggy (September 25)
A highly praised stand-up known for her sharp, relatable humour on family life. She is a familiar face on TV shows including Live at the Apollo and Would I Lie To You. 😂 City Varieties Music Hall, Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW | Provided
42. Sindhu Vee: Swanky (September 26)
Critically acclaimed stand-up known for her gentle yet powerful delivery and sharp observations on family life and culture. She is a regular on QI and Have I Got News For You. 😂 City Varieties Music Hall, Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW | Contributed